Before the Ford Mustang entered the scene in '64, performance-car enthusiasts were limited to one of two types of vehicles: sports cars or big muscle cars. But the '64 Mustang was a fresh, new hybrid of sports and muscle car that offered relatively surefooted handling and straight-line speed. And what's more, it came with a reasonable sticker price.
The Mustang and the Mustang-inspired cars from other manufacturers that followed became known as pony cars; over the years, the Mustang's leadership in the group was rarely threatened. Today, however, when the class is reduced to three players - the Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Pontiac Firebird - Ford's innovator faces its most serious challenge.
All three contenders are well-built, offer the latest in safety features and are backed by solid dealer networks. As a result, the principal weapon in this pony-car battle is horsepower. Although the Mustang offers 215 hp in its high-end GT model, the General Motors cars up the ante considerably with a healthy 275 hp apiece in their high-performance versions, the Camaro Z28 and Firebird Trans Am. (Later this year, Ford will offer a special limited-edition Mustang Cobra that will close the power gap. However, buyers will have to pay a premium for the Cobra and there won't be many of them thanks to the limited production.)
In addition to the engine, the Mustang GT's 5-speed manual transmission is surpassed by the GM cars' 6-speed gearboxes.
But power isn't everything, and there's a lot to like in Ford's fancy horse, judging by the maxed-out $26,765 GT convertible we tested. For many motorists, the Mustang's overall attraction and sense of history could very well outweigh the performance benefits conferred by Camaro or Firebird ownership.
All vehicle information displayed on this web site is supplied by the offering dealer or other third parties. This site is not responsible in any way for the accuracy or completeness of such information. This site provides this classified listings service and materials without representations or warranties of any kind, either express or implied. All prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Prices may not include additional fees such as government fees and taxes, title and registration fees, finance charges, dealer document preparation fees, processing fees, emission testing and compliance charges. Please contact seller for updated information.